Choosing the Right Replacement Canopy

There is a gazebo sitting out in the yard, with no canopy on it because the original one that came with the gazebo is ripped and torn after years of wear and tear, and the frame is still in excellent condition. What do you do? You can either throw the gazebo away and fork out $300 to $500, maybe even $1,000 or more for a new gazebo OR buy a replacement canopy top to fit your existing frame. Sure, buying a new gazebo may sound like a good idea, but throwing away the old metal frame of the old gazebo, which is probably not that old to begin with, is not environmentally friendly. Plus, that is a lot of money to pay every couple of years for a new frame. So, the only practical, environmentally friendly, and cost effective solution is to buy a replacement canopy. Not only will you have a new top for your gazebo frame, but added years of enjoyment and fun for you and your family.

There are a lot of replacement canopies to choose from, and it all depends on the type of frame you have. Today’s gazebos come in all shapes and sizes, and the trend seems to be that gazebos are getting bigger. It is very rare nowadays to find an 8 x 8 square gazebo. Today, gazebos come in all shapes and sizes, straying away from the traditional square shape, and offering rectangular, hexagon, and round shapes. With various gazebo shapes retail stores provide, the style is just as important. Detailed scrollwork on the canopy such as leaves, flowers, and lattice work give the gazebos a unique look, as if the gazebo itself is another room where you can relax or entertain guests. The ability to customize and add furniture and other décor creates an extension of the family living room, only it is outdoors.

Which canopy is right for me?

As every gazebo is different, so too, are the replacement canopies for it. All of our replacement canopies that we manufacture are made specific to that gazebo. The first step in determining if Garden Winds carries your replacement canopy is with a model number (also known as style number, SKU number, etc.). This model number can either be the manufacturer’s model number or the model number the retail store assigned to the product. This is the gazebo’s identification number. The model number can be found on a tag on the underside of the original canopy or on the netting set. The instructions manual also include the model number. Most think the model number is etched on the frame of the gazebo. That is not the case, and should be a suggestion to manufacturers, as that would be the easiest place to find the model number.

If you do not know or have the model number, the store from where the gazebo was purchased narrows down the many different types of gazebos you will funnel through to determine which replacement canopy will fit your frame. We carry replacement canopy tops for gazebos that were sold at big box retail stores, such as Home Depot, Target, and Wal-Mart, to name a few.

What makes my gazebo different than the rest?

The store where the gazebo was purchased and the model number are the best chances of finding a replacement canopy. However, if those are not available, the unique characteristics of the frame itself are another tool in finding that specific canopy top. Ask yourself, “What makes my gazebo different?” Finials, or ornaments such as bulbs, arrows, and spears that are used to fasten the canopy onto the gazebo frame.

Gazebos are usually single tier or double-tiered. A single tier frame canopy looks like a pyramid. A double tiered frame has another top tier structure to accommodate another, smaller canopy top. Also, the way the canopy attaches to the frame is another difference to consider. Some canopies attach over the frame of the gazebo for a secure fit. Other canopies attach by a corner pocket design, where the canopy attaches to poles which extend past the frame of the gazebo. Some attach by hooks into holes on the frame. In addition, every gazebo is constructed differently. Some gazebos have panels that contain detailed scrollwork or shelves where you can display plants, vases, and other outdoor items. Strong, sturdy posts, or a fenced in look are also unique characteristics that vary with each gazebo.

Choosing the right replacement canopy

The best way to determine whether or not Garden Winds carries the specific replacement canopy top for your frame is with a model number. The varying details of the gazebo frame can also help, but will not guarantee a fit. Although there is a universal that is available, choosing a custom fit will make your gazebo appear brand new again. The universal replacement canopy provides a generic fit and not a custom fit for most standard 10 x 10 square size gazebos. With a custom fit canopy, there is less likelihood of the canopy fabric deteriorating, as a replacement canopy that does not fit can shorten the lifespan of the canopy. In addition, the accumulation of water after a light or a heavy rainstorm creates a pool of water on the canopy, which results in mold forming, and tearing of the fabric.

If you want to make your gazebo look new again, a replacement canopy will definitely add more years of enjoyment for you and your family. Our replacement canopies are made out of a nylon material and weighs 200 grams per square meter, which is above the industry standard of 140 grams per square meter. The material may be 30% more durable than the canopy that came with your original gazebo. Our replacement canopy tops are lacquered to be water resistant, and is also UV treated.

Choosing the right canopy that will specifically fit your frame is the first step. Look to Garden Winds if you are in search of a replacement canopy. We have the country’s largest selection of replacement canopies available for most gazebo makes and models. Their user friendly online shopping site makes it easy to find the exact replacement canopy top for your gazebo. Their customer service team is knowledgeable and available to assist you with any questions about our products. Please visit Garden Winds to purchase your new replacement gazebo canopy top today!